Employment Counselor

Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota is a dynamic social service organization serving children, youth and families, people with disabilities, older adults, and military veterans. Trustworthiness is a value and strength shared by our employees and recognized by the communities we serve. We offer an ALIVE Workplace (Supportive, Positive and Fun) and careers that challenge, energize, and reward employees. Consider joining us!

The primary purpose of this position is to assist MFIP program participants who are faced with severe barriers to employment move into the workforce and gain self-sufficiency and to obtain & maintain employment. The position maintains an active case load and also develops employer relationships for the purpose of placements.

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree required; significant professional experience may substitute for formal education at the discretion of the hiring manager.
• Experience working with diverse populations in an employment counseling or rehabilitation setting is preferred.
• Intermediate computer skills, including internet, email, Microsoft Office, and ability to learn program specific software/database applications.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; effective interpersonal relation skills.
• Detail-oriented.
• Ability to multi-task and balance competing priorities.
• This position requires a high level of detail and mandates that employee has both the ability to recall significant amounts of information as well as document and remain organized.
• Maintain a friendly and firm disposition since the employee will be working, regularly, with clients that are stressed, frustrated, or otherwise experiencing difficulties.
• Be receptive to the nature of social work in the U.S. including the concepts of boundaries, confidentiality and empowerment.
• Must have access to reliable transportation.
• Knowledge of community resources.
• Draw on problem-solving skills in order to resolve conflicts and build bridges between clients, employer, employees, etc.
• Sensitivity towards issues that affect a person’s ability to obtain and retain employment.
• Think analytically and creatively when assessing a participant’s needs and making recommendations for service.
• Able to concentrate in a busy office environment and respond to frequent interruptions.
• Sensitivity toward issues such as alcoholism, domestic abuse, homelessness, mental illness, learning disabilities, and physical disabilities.
• Able to work with and relate effectively to people from a variety of socio-economic, racial, faith and cultural background.